GekkoPod flexes its camera and smartphone-holding muscles

GekkoPod is a flexible mount for compact cameras, action-cams, or smartphones, which can give them the support they need by clinging onto, gripping and wrapping around everyday objects. The five-legged mount, which was inspired by the feet of a gecko, is currently on Kickstarter where it's exceeded its funding target within a couple of days.

While most photographers are aware of importance of keeping their camera steady when shooting in low light or recording videos, it's not always practical or easy to deploy a traditional tripod, hence the popularity of flexible offerings like the Joby Gorillapod. The crowd-funded GekkoPod hopes to offer even more flexibility with its bendy and durable gecko-inspired legs.

Like the Gorillapods before it, the flexibility of the GekkoPod doesn't only mean it can be easily used on uneven surfaces, but also to hold onto other objects to achieve shots from different angles. Its legs are made from metal and silicone and can be contorted into various positions and grips. Non-slip dots on the legs add to the stability it can offer.

Cameras and other devices can be attached to either the center of the GekkoPod, or one of the legs, depending on the lift needed and how the mount is being used. If using the center mount it offers 7.6 cm (3 in) of lift, or 12.7 cm (5 in) if using the leg. The GekkoPod itself weighs a very portable 45 g (1.6 oz) and unfurled it measures 17.8 x 17.8 cm (7 x 7 in), it can support devices up to 625 g (1.4 lbs).

In terms of available mounts, the GekkoPod will come with a standard tripod screw for attaching most cameras, along with an adaptable mount which will fit smartphones 5.3 to 9.9 cm wide (2.1 to 3.9 in), or a GoPro mount. There's also the option of getting the GekkoPod bundled with both, and a ballhead that has a 360 degree panorama rotation and a 90 degree tilt knob.

While the most obvious use of the GekkoPod is when shooting photographs or video, makers say it's equally able to hold a device in other situations such as attaching your smartphone to your bike, or holding it at the right angle while you have a video chat. Claws at the end of legs mean it can hold devices which are not mounted via a screw hole.

A Kickstarter pledge of US$16 is currently enough to get you a GekkoPod with a standard screw and either the adaptable mount or a GoPro mount. For $20 you get both mounts and $25 will also also get you the ballhead. The campaign will run to July 2nd, and, if all goes according to plan, shipping is expected in October.